Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between David Evennett and James Duddridge

Wednesday 4th March 2020 Commons Chamber

[Sir David Evennett (Bexleyheath and Crayford) (Con)]

8. What steps her Department is taking to help improve infrastructure in developing countries.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for International Development (James Duddridge)]

DFID has over 150 infra- structure programmes, including providing water, roads, electricity, schools and hospitals. This Government established the International Development Infrastructure Commission to accelerate our work in this area.

[James Duddridge]

DFID is directly investing in infrastructure programmes that will enhance climate resilience in developing countries. Our work is focused on creating the right enabling conditions to direct private finance into low-carbon infrastructure, expanding Africa’s financial markets and unlocking investment through innovative instruments such as green investment bonds.

[Sir David Evennett]

I welcome my hon. Friend’s work in this important area. As we look to the UN climate summit in Glasgow later this year, can he update the House on the work with countries across Africa to help them develop their clean energy potential?

[James Duddridge]

I thank my right hon. Friend for his passion for Africa. We are committed to working with African countries to boost renewable energy potential and cleaner energy alternatives. For example, the Africa clean energy programme is working in over 15 countries to increase the deployment of off-grid renewable energy.